Kyle Ride revealed that after one race at the UK Superbikes Conference at Donington Park, a very rapid engine change occurred that was delayed between qualifying and racing, but still managed the podium finish in second place.
The OMG’s nitrite competition mechanics worked hard at Yamaha and limited time to complete the changes, so the Red Flags watched more than an hour of qualifying.
The reality champion revealed that the slow change had just been completed in time.
“First of all, obviously hated my team – I had a bit of drama after qualifying and had to replace the engine, so they were able to prepare it in time for the race, so thanks to the boys, they made their ass work to fix it.
On the track, Ride was led by Glenn Irwin and Bradley Ray in some of the opening laps, fighting in their first fight on a track that wasn’t solo.
“I led five, six, seven laps. I’m not sure. The pace was pretty good. As Glenn passed me, Brad went straight and did a few laps to figure out what to do. What I shouldn’t have done. At one point, the hairpin, at the last corner” added the #1 plated rider.
Kyle Ryde in the pits at Donington Park, BSB, 2025
©Ian Hopgood Photo
The ride had to go Ray, following the break and gap, but with attention from Josh Brooks, he wanted to retain the first podium finish of the season.
Ryde added that he believes he will be able to compete again tomorrow at his home circuit after a race 1 performance, “We’re not going to have to wait until now.”
“I think tomorrow will definitely have the speed to compete with Brad. I’m happy to be able to score the first podium of the season.”
